California Assembly Bill AR97

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/3/20
• Passed: 6/11/20

Caption

Relative to high-speed rail.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the Assembly's role in the appropriation of funds and insists on the importance of oversight and input before committing to significant project decisions. Notably, it seeks to prevent the High-Speed Rail Authority from executing contracts for construction and procurement related to the project until the Assembly can review and approve the funding request. This creates a framework that promotes legislative oversight in state infrastructure projects, thus impacting how future projects may be managed and funded.

Summary

AR97, introduced by Assembly Member Frazier, addresses the ongoing developments and funding related to California's high-speed rail project. The bill highlights the High-Speed Rail Authority's Draft 2020 Business Plan, which proposes utilizing approximately $5 billion in available high-speed rail funding. The primary aim of this proposal is to construct a fully electrified high-speed passenger rail line extending from Merced to Bakersfield. To move forward, the project requires an appropriation of $4.2 billion from remaining Proposition 1A bond funds during the upcoming Budget Act of 2021.

Contention

The discussion surrounding AR97 reveals points of contention primarily focused on the management of high-speed rail initiatives in California. The resolution expresses concerns that if the High-Speed Rail Authority proceeds too quickly, it may limit opportunities to explore alternate plans or proposals for the rail system. This reflects a broader debate about the role of legislative bodies in overseeing large infrastructure projects, balancing the need for progress with thorough scrutiny of funding and operational strategies. There is a risk that expedited decisions could preclude more thoughtful examination of the project’s implications and alternatives.